A tenant screening company offers one of the most valuable services that landlords can use in their businesses. It brings the peace of mind of knowing that applicants are being vetted appropriately so that the best tenant can be chosen for each vacancy.

Landlords should look for the following qualities and elements when selecting a tenant screening company:

1. Proven and Experienced

The tenant screening company chosen should have a track record of satisfied customers and great results. Look for positive reviews of the service online to verify that they will do a thorough and effective job with the screening process.

2. Criminal Background Checks

This parameter is one of the most important to look for from a tenant screening company. Ensuring that applicants do not have a criminal record is key to making good selections and having a positive experience with ideal tenants down the road.

3. Eviction Records

Tenant screening companies should screen for past evictions as part of the screening package. Evictions are one of the biggest tenant screening red flags for landlords, as past behavior is often an indicator of what can be expected in the future.

4. Credit Check

Tenant screening should also include pulling a copy of the applicant’s credit report. This will help to ensure persons who are financially viable are always chosen as tenants. Problems with credit history such as a low credit score, delinquent accounts, bankruptcy or other issues could indicate the individual will not be financially reliable as a tenant. Landlords should ensure that a credit check is part of the protocol offered by tenant screening services.

5. Modern Tenant Screening Company Processes

The tenant screening company you choose should also have access to the most up to date records available at this time. Inquire about the company’s processes and ensure that they are using cutting-edge technology and resources.

6. Fair and Compliant

The tenant screening company that landlords choose should also be aware of and compliant with all laws that are relevant to fair tenant screening. An awareness of the federal Fair Housing Act as well as relevant state laws is important to ensuring all applicants are treated fairly throughout the screening process.

The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based upon race, creed, origin, skin color, disability and family status. Experienced tenant background screeners will have a solid grasp and proven track record in this area. They should also update their practices as needed based on changes to the law.

7. Bringing It All Together

In addition to these steps and qualities provided by professional tenant screening companies, landlords should take certain screening steps of their own. These would include verifying employment, calling past landlords and checking references. Inquiring about behavior and reliability from past contacts can help with making an informed decision going forward.

With the help of an experienced, proven professional tenant screening company landlords are assisted in making better choices. Our screening services can assist in all of these areas and more. We look forward to working with you!

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2018/04/07/upshot/millions-of-eviction-records-a-sweeping-new-look-at-housing-in-america.html

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